Hydrogen-oxygen gas generator and method of generating hydrogen-oxygen gas using the generator

ABSTRACT

A hydrogen-oxygen gas generator comprising an electrolytic cell, an electrode group formed from an anode and a cathode mutually installed in that electrolytic cell, a power supply for applying a voltage across the anode and cathode, a gas trapping means for collecting the hydrogen-oxygen gas generated by electrolyzing the electrolyte fluid and a vibration-stirring means. The gas trapping means is comprised of a lid member installed on the electrolytic cell, a hydrogen-gas extraction tube connecting to the hydrogen-oxygen gas extraction outlet of that lid member. A vibration-stirring means for stirring and agitating the electrolytic fluid is supported by support tables. The distance between the adjacent positive electrode and negative electrode within the electrode group is set within a range of 1 to 20 millimeters. The vibration-stirring means is comprised of vibrating motors vibrating at 10 to 200 Hertz, and vibrating blades vibrating within the electrolytic cell and unable to rotate are attached to a vibrating rod linked to the vibrating motors.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates to an apparatus and method forgenerating hydrogen-oxygen gas, and relates in particular to ahydrogen-oxygen gas generator and hydrogen-oxygen gas generating methodfor highly efficient generation of hydrogen-oxygen gas.

[0003] 2. Description of Related Art

[0004] Electrolysis or electrolytic technology was pioneered by Faraday.The electrolysis of water is known to produce a hydrogen-oxygen gas in aratio of two parts hydrogen to one part oxygen. Research onhydrogen-oxygen gas has continued up to the present time. One example ofa practical technology is a gas generating apparatus developed by Dr.Yull Brown of Brown Energy System Technology PTY. LTD. of Australia.Patent document relating to this technology is disclosed in JapaneseUtility Model Registration 3037633.

[0005] In this technology, the structure of the electrolytic cell forgenerating the hydrogen-oxygen gas is comprised of multiple electrodeplates formed with mutually perpendicular electrolytic fluid flow holesand gas flow holes at the top and bottom in the center, and formed withbolt holes on four sides; multiple alternately coupled spacers formedwith bolt housing holes protruding outwards between the electrodeplates, and O-rings inserted on the spacer inner circumferential surfacefor sealing of the filled electrolytic fluid; and electrolytic cellcover plates holding electrical current conducting bolts and gascoupling nipples and electrolytic fluid coupling nipples are mounted onboth sides of the electrode plates, and an electrode plate tightened bynuts to a stay bolt enclosed by bolt holes of the electrolytic cellcover plates and spacer bolt housing holes, electrode plate bolt holes,with the spacer and electrolytic cell cover plates mutually joinedtogether.

[0006] However, in the method of the related art, the shortest possibledistance between the adjacent electrode plates within this kind ofelectrolytic cell was a gap of 50 millimeters just sufficient to preventelectrical shorts. An even shorter distance between electrode platestended to cause accidents due to excessive current flow. The efficiencyof the apparatus and method of the related art was therefore limitedwhen producing hydrogen-oxygen gas by increasing the electrical currentdensity. The related art therefore had the problem that adequateefficiency could not be provided.

[0007] On the other hand, since the size of each electrolytic cell waslimited, the amount of hydrogen-oxygen gas produced by onehydrogen-oxygen gas generator was also limited. In view of practicalneeds, preferably a device with as small a size as possible, preferablyproduces as much hydrogen-oxygen gas as possible per unit of time.However, the apparatus of the related art could not satisfy the dualneeds of both a compact size and generation of larger amounts ofhydrogen-oxygen gas.

[0008] In view of the problems with the related art, the presentinvention provides increased amounts of hydrogen-oxygen gas perelectrode unit surface area per unit of time by improving electrolyzingconditions and boosting hydrogen-oxygen gas generating efficiency, toenable production of larger hydrogen-oxygen gas quantities from eachgenerator apparatus and a more compact apparatus.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] To achieve the objects of the invention the present inventionprovides a hydrogen-oxygen gas generator comprising an electrolyticcell, an electrode group formed from a first electrode and a secondelectrode mutually installed in that electrolytic cell, a power supplyfor applying a voltage across the first electrode and a secondelectrode, a gas trapping means for collecting the hydrogen-oxygen gasgenerated by electrolyzing the electrolyte fluid stored within theelectrolytic cell, wherein

[0010] said generator further contains a vibration-stirring means forstirring and agitating the electrolytic fluid stored within theelectrolytic cell, and the distance between the adjacent first electrodeand a second electrode adjacently installed within the electrode groupis set within a range of 1 to 20 millimeters.

[0011] In a first aspect of the invention, a gas trapping means iscomprised of a lid member installed on the electrolytic cell, and ahydrogen-oxygen gas extraction tube connecting to the hydrogen-oxygengas extraction outlet formed on that lid member.

[0012] In a first aspect of the invention, the vibration-stirring meansis comprised of a vibration generating means containing vibratingmotors, a vibrating rod is linked to the vibration generating means forvibrating within the electrolytic cell, and vibrating blades unable torotate, are installed on at least one level of the vibrating rod, andthe vibrating motors vibrate at 10 to 200 Hertz. In the first aspect ofthe invention, the vibration generating means is installed with avibration absorbing material on the upper side of the electrolytic cell.In the first aspect of the invention, the vibration generating means issupported by support tables separate from the electrolytic cell. In thefirst aspect of the invention, the gas trapping means is comprised of alid member installed on the electrolytic cell, and a hydrogen-oxygen gasextraction tube connecting to the hydrogen-oxygen gas extraction outletformed on that lid member, and the vibrating rod extends through the lidmember, and a sealing means between the lid member and the vibrating rodallows vibration of the vibrating rod and also prevents the passage ofhydrogen-oxygen gas.

[0013] In the first aspect of the invention, at least one of either thefirst electrode or the second electrode contain multiple holes. In thefirst aspect of the invention, the power source is a direct currentpulse power source.

[0014] To achieve the objects of the invention the present inventionprovides a hydrogen-oxygen gas generating method wherein said methodutilizes a hydrogen-oxygen gas generator as described above, andutilizes electrolyte fluid consisting of 5 to 10 percent weight byvolume of electrolytic material at pH7 to 10 at 20 to 70 degreescentigrade, to perform electrolysis of the electrolyte fluid to reach anelectrical current density of 5A/dm² to 20A/dm².

[0015] In the first aspect of the invention, the electrolysis isperformed in an electrolytic cell sealed by a lid member. In the firstaspect of the invention,, the electrolytic material is a water-solublealkali metal hydroxide or an alkali rare-earth metal hydroxide. In thefirst aspect of the invention, the power source is a direct currentpulse power source.

[0016] In the first aspect of the invention, the vibrating blades of thevibration-stirring means cause a powerful vibrating flow movement in theelectrolytic fluid so that the electrolytic fluid can make contact withthe electrodes with ample, satisfactory uniformity and also an adequatesupply quantity. Therefore even if the gap between the anode and thecathode is drastically reduced to a distance even smaller than in therelated art, ions can still be supplied in an adequate quantity requiredfor electrolysis, and the electrolytic heat generated in the electrodescan be quickly dissipated. Electrolysis can therefore be performed at ahigh electrical current density so that hydrogen-oxygen gas can becollected with high efficiency. Further, by reducing the distancebetween the cathode and anode as described above, the effective surfacearea of the electrodes can be sufficiently increased per volumetric unitso that ample quantities of hydrogen-oxygen gas can be generated even ifthe electrolytic cells are made more compact.

[0017] In particular, when performing electrolysis by vibrating andagitating the electrolyte fluid using the vibration-stirring means, thehydrogen and oxygen generated in the vicinity of the electrodes iscarried to the electrolyte fluid surface and transitions to a gaseousstate before forming gas bubbles. Therefore, there is no problem withthe hydrogen and oxygen generated in the electrolyte fluid adhering tothe surface of the electrodes and increasing the electrical resistance.Therefore electrolysis with a high electrical current density asdescribed above can easily be acheived.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018]FIG. 1 is a cross sectional drawing showing the hydrogen-oxygengas generator of the present invention:

[0019]FIG. 2 is a flat view of the hydrogen-oxygen gas generator of FIG.1;

[0020]FIG. 3 is a side view of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

[0021]FIG. 4. is an enlarged fragmentary view of the apparatus of FIG.1;

[0022]FIG. 5A is a perspective view showing the structure of theelectrode group;

[0023]FIG. 5B is a front view showing the structure of the electrodegroup;

[0024]FIG. 6A is a front view showing the insulation frame comprisingthe electrode group;

[0025]FIG. 6B is a front view showing the electrodes comprising theelectrode group;

[0026]FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross sectional view showing the attachmentof the vibrating rod onto the vibrating member of the apparatus of FIG.1;

[0027]FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross sectional view showing a variation ofthe attachment of the vibrating rod onto the vibrating member;

[0028]FIG. 9 is an enlarged cross sectional view of the vibrating bladeattachment onto the vibrating rod of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

[0029]FIG. 10 is a flat view showing a variation of the vibrating bladeand the clamping member;

[0030]FIG. 11 is a flat view showing a variation of the vibrating bladeand the clamping member;

[0031]FIG. 12 is a flat view showing a variation of the vibrating bladeand the clamping member;

[0032]FIG. 13 is a flat view showing a variation of the vibrating bladeand the clamping member;

[0033]FIG. 14 is a graph showing the relation between vibrating bladelength and flutter;

[0034]FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of thevibration stirring means;

[0035]FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of thevibration stirring means;

[0036]FIG. 17 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of thevibration stirring means;

[0037]FIG. 18 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of thevibration stirring means;

[0038]FIG. 19 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of thevibration stirring means;

[0039]FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view showing another installationstate of the vibration stirring means onto the electrolytic cell of thepresent invention;

[0040]FIG. 21 is a cross sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG.20;

[0041]FIG. 22 is a flat view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 20;

[0042]FIG. 23A through FIG. 23C are flat views of the laminated piece;

[0043]FIG. 24A and FIG. 24B are cross sectional views showing the stateof the sealed electrolytic cell by the laminated piece;

[0044]FIG. 25A through FIG. 25E are cross sectional view of thelaminated piece;

[0045]FIG. 26 is a fragmentary view of the gas trapping means of thehydrogen-oxygen gas generator of the present invention;

[0046]FIG. 27 is a concept view showing one example of the gascombustion device utilizing the hydrogen-oxygen gas collected by thehydrogen-oxygen gas generator;

[0047]FIG. 28 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of thevibration stirring means;

[0048]FIG. 29 is a perspective view showing a variation of the lidmember.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0049] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are describednext while referring to the drawings. In the drawings, members orsections having identical functions are assigned the same referencenumerals.

[0050]FIG. 1 through FIG. 3 are drawings showing the structure of theembodiment of the hydrogen-oxygen gas generator for implementing thehydrogen-oxygen gas generating method of the present invention. Of thesefigures, FIG. 1 is a cross sectional view, FIG. 2 is a flat view, andFIG. 3 is a side view.

[0051] In these figures, reference numeral 10A denotes the electrolyticcell. The electrolytic cell contains electrolytic fluid 14. Referencenumeral 16 is the vibration-stirring means. The vibration-stirring means16 is comprised of a base 16 a installed via anti-vibration rubber ontoa support bed 100 separate from the electrolytic cell 10 a, a coilspring 16 b as a vibration absorbing material installed with the bottomedge clamped to the base (16 a), a vibration member 16 c clamped to thetop edge of that coil spring, vibration motor 16 d installed on thatvibration member, a vibrating rod (vibration transmission rod) 16 einstalled on the top edge of the vibration member 16 c, and a vibratingblade 16 f unable to rotate, and installed at multiple levels at aposition immersed in the electrolytic fluid 14 at the lower half of thevibrating rod 16. A vibration generating means contains a vibrationmotor 16 d and a vibration member 16 c. That vibration generating meansis linked to the vibrating rod 16 e. A rod-shaped guide member can beinstalled within the coil spring 16 b as described later on in FIG. 16and elsewhere.

[0052] The vibration motors 16 d vibrate at 10 to 200 Hertz undercontrol for example of an inverter and preferably vibrate at 20 to 60Hertz. The vibration generated by the vibration motors 16 d istransmitted to the vibrating blade 16 f by way of the vibrating member16 c and the vibrating rod 16 e. The tips of the vibrating blades 16 fvibrate at the required frequency inside the electrolytic fluid 14. Thevibrating blades 16 f generate a “rippling” oscillation to the tips,from the section where installed onto the vibrating rod 16 e. Theamplitude and frequency of this vibration are different from that of thevibrating motors 16 d, and are determined by the mechanicalcharacteristics of the vibration transmission path and the mutualinteraction with the electrolytic fluid 14. In the present invention,the amplitude is preferably 0.1 to 15.0 millimeters and the frequency is200 to 1,000 times per minute.

[0053]FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross sectional view showing theinstallation of the vibrating rod 16 e attachment piece 111 onto thevibrating member 16 c. The nuts 16 i 1, 16 i 2 are fit from the top sideof vibration member 16 c, by way of the vibration strain dispersionmember 16 g 1 and washer 16 h, onto the male screw section formed at thetop end of vibrating rod 16 e. The nuts 16 i 3, 16 i 4 are fit by way ofthe vibration strain dispersion member 16 g 2 from the bottom side (ontothe screw section) of the vibration member 16 c. The vibration straindispersion member 16 g 1, 16 g 2 are utilized as a vibration stressdispersion means made for example from rubber. The vibration straindispersion member 16 g 1, 16 g 2 can be made from a hard resilient piecefor example of natural rubber, hard synthetic rubber, or plastic with aShore A hardness of 80 to 120 and preferably 90 to 100. Hard urethanerubber with a Shore A hardness of 90 to 100 is particularly preferablyin view of its durability and resistance to chemicals. Utilizing thevibration stress dispersion means prevents vibration stress fromconcentrating on the near side of the junction of vibrating member c andthe vibrating rode 16 e, and makes the vibrating rod 16 e more difficultto break. Raising the vibration frequency of the vibrating motors 16 dto 100 Hertz or higher is particularly effective in preventing breakageof the vibrating rod 16 e.

[0054]FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross sectional view showing a variation ofthe vibrating rod 16 e attachment piece 111 onto the vibrating member 16c. This variation differs from the attachment piece of FIG. 7, only inthat the vibration strain dispersion member 16 g 1 is not installed onthe top side of the vibration member 16 c and in that there is aspherical spacer 16 x between the vibration member 16 c and thevibration strain dispersion member 16 g. In all other respects thevariation is identical to FIG. 7.

[0055]FIG. 9 is an enlarged cross sectional view of the vibrating blade16 f attachment onto the vibrating rod 16 e. A vibrating blade clampmember 16 j is installed on both the top and bottom sides of eachvibrating blade 16 f. Spacer rings 16 k are installed for setting thespacing between the vibrating blades 16 f by means of clamp members 16j. A nut 16 m is screwed on to the vibrating rod 16 e formed as a malescrew with or without spacer rings 16 k as shown in FIG. 1, on the upperside of the topmost section of vibrating blade 16 f, and the lower sideof the bottom-most section of the vibrating blade 16 f. As shown in FIG.9, the breakage of the vibrating blade 16 f can be prevented byinstalling a resilient member sheet 16 p as the vibration dispersionmeans made from fluorine plastic or fluorine rubber between eachvibrating blade 16 f and clamping member 16 j. The resilient membersheet 16 p is preferably installed to protrude outwards somewhat fromthe clamping member 16 j in order to further enhance the breakageprevention effect of the vibrating blade 16 f. As shown in the figure,the lower surface (press-contact surface) of the upper side of clampingmember 16 j is formed with a protruding surface, and the upper surface(press contact surface) of the lower side clamping member 16 j is formedwith a recessed surface. The section of the vibrating blade 16 fcompressed from above and below by the clamping member 16 j is in thisway forced in a curved shape, and the tip of the vibrating blade 16 fforms an angle α versus the horizontal surface. This α angle can be setto −30 degrees or more and 30 degrees or less, and preferably is −20degrees or more and 20 degrees or less. The α angle in particular is −30degrees or more and −5 degrees or less, or is 5 degrees or more and 30degrees or less, and preferably is −20 degrees or more and −10 degreesor less, or is 10 degrees or more and 20 degrees or less. The α angle is0 if the clamping member 16 j (press contact) surface is flat. The αangle need not be the same for all the vibrating blades 16 f. Forexample, the lower 1 to 2 blades of vibrating blade 16 f may be set to aminus value (in other words, facing downwards: facing as shown in FIG.9) and all other blades of vibrating blade 16 f set to a plus value (inother words facing upwards: the reverse of the value shown in FIG. 9).

[0056]FIG. 10 through FIG. 13 are flat views showing variations of thevibrating blade 16 f and the clamping member 16 j. In the variations inFIG. 10 and FIG. 11, the vibrating blade 16 f may be comprised of twoshort overlapping strips crossing each other and, or may cut out in across shape from one sheet as shown in the drawing.

[0057] Resilient metal plate, plastic plate or rubber plate may beutilized as the vibrating blade 16 f. A satisfactory thickness range forthe vibrating blade 16 f differs according to the vibration conditionsand viscosity of the electrolytic fluid 14. However, during operation ofthe vibration-stirring means 16, the vibrating blades should be set sothe tips of the vibrating blades 16 f provide an oscillation (flutterphenomenon) for increasing the stirring (or agitating) efficiency,without breaking the vibrating blade. If the vibrating blade 16 f ismade from metal plate such as stainless steel plate, then the thicknesscan be set from 0.2 to 2 millimeters. If the vibrating blade 16 f ismade from plastic plate or rubber plate then the thickness can be setfrom 0.5 to 10 millimeters. The vibrating blade 16 f and clamping member16 j can be integrated into one piece. Integrating them into one pieceavoids the problem of having to wash away electrolytic fluid 14 thatpenetrates into the junction of the vibrating blade 16 f and clampmember 16 j and hardens and adheres there.

[0058] The material for the metallic vibrating blade 16 f may betitanium, aluminum, copper, steel, stainless steel, a ferromagneticmetal such as ferromagnetic steel, or an alloy of these metals. Thematerial for the plastic vibrating blade 16 f may be polycarbonate,vinyl chloride resin, polyprophylene.

[0059] The extent of the “flutter phenomenon” generated by the vibratingblade that accompanies the vibration of vibrating blade 16 f within theelectrolytic fluid 14 will vary depending on the vibration frequency ofthe vibration motors 16 d, the length of the vibrating blade 16 f(dimension from the tip of clamping member 16 j to the tip of vibratingblade 16 f), and thickness, and viscosity and specific gravity of theelectrolytic fluid 14, etc. The length and thickness of the “fluttering”vibrating blade 16 f can be well selected based on the appliedfrequency. By making the vibration frequency of vibrating motor 16 d andthickness of vibrating blade 16 f fixed values, and then varying thelength of vibrating blade 16 f, the extent of vibrating blade flutterwill be as shown in FIG. 14. In other words, the flutter will increaseup to a certain stage as the length of vibrating blade 16 f isincreased, but when that point is exceeded, the extent F of the flutterwill become smaller. As shown in this graph, at a certain length theflutter will be almost zero and if the blade is further lengthened theflutter increase and this process continuously repeats itself.

[0060] Preferably a length L₁ shown as the No. 1 peak or a length L₂shown as the No. 2 peak is selected for the vibrating blade length. L₁or L₂ can be selected according to whether one wants to boost the pathvibration or the flow. When L3 shown as the No. 3 peak was selected, theamplitude will tend to diminish.

[0061] The above described vibration-stirring means 16 can be used inthe vibration-stirring machines (stirrer apparatus) as described in thefollowing documents (These are patent applications relating to theinvention of the present inventors.), as well as in JP-B 135628/2001,JP-B 338422/2001 patent applications of the present inventors.

[0062] JP-A 275130/1991 (U.S. Pat. No. 1,941,498)

[0063] JP-A 220697/1994 (U.S. Pat. No. 2,707,530)

[0064] JP-A 312124/1994 (U.S. Pat. No. 2,762,388)

[0065] JP-A 281272/1996 (U.S. Pat. No. 2,767,771)

[0066] JP-A 173785/1996 (U.S. Pat. No. 2,852,878)

[0067] JP-A 126896/1995 (U.S. Pat. No. 2,911,350)

[0068] JP-A 40482/1997 (U.S. Pat. No. 2,911,393)

[0069] JP-A 189880/1999 (U.S. Pat. No. 2,988,624)

[0070] JP-A 54192/1995 (U.S. Pat. No. 2,989,440)

[0071] JP-A 33035/1994 (U.S. Pat. No. 2,992,177)

[0072] JP-A 287799/1994 (U.S. Pat. No. 3,035,114)

[0073] JP-A 280035/1994 (U.S. Pat. No. 3,244,334)

[0074] JP-A 304461/1994 (U.S. Pat. No. 3,142,417)

[0075] JP-A 43569/1998

[0076] JP-A 369453/1998

[0077] JP-A 253782/1999

[0078] In this invention, the vibrating-stirring means 16 as shown inFIG. 1, may be installed in the electrolytic cells on both ends or mayinstalled in only one electrolytic cell. If using the vibrating bladesto extend symmetrically to both sides, then the vibration-stirring means16 may be installed in the center of the electrolytic cell, and anelectrode group may be installed on both sides as described later on.

[0079] Using a vibration-stirring means with the vibrating blades in thebottom of the electrolytic cells as described in JP-A 304461/1994,allows a wider installation space for the electrode group within theelectrolytic cell. Other advantages are that a larger quantity of gas isemitted from the electrolytic cell (volume) and if the electrodes areinstalled in the upward and downward directions, then there is no needto use multiple holes as described later on.

[0080] The description now returns to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. In the presentembodiment, a vibration-stirring means 16 as described above isinstalled on both ends of the electrolytic cell 10A. Two identicalelectrode groups 2 x, 2 y are installed inside the electrolytic cell10A. The electrode groups 2 x and 2 y have a structure as shown in FIG.5A and FIG. 5B. In other words, an anode 71 a as a first electrode, anda cathode 71 b as a second electrode are mutually installed in theinsulation frame 70. One each anode 71 a and one cathode 71 b each areshown in FIG. 5A however, the necessary number of anodes 71 a andcathodes 71 b required for actual use (for example, 25 to 50) areinstalled. FIG. 6A is a drawing showing the insulation frame 70. FIG. 6Bis a drawing showing the anode 71 a.

[0081] The usual material utilized for hydroelectrolyis may be utilizedas the electrode material. Materials such as lead dioxide (leadperoxide), magnetite, ferrite, graphite, platinum, Pt—Ir alloy, titaniumalloy, titanium with rare-earth sheath (for example platinum-sheathedtitanium) may be used as the anode 71 a. Rare earth metals such asrhodium, nickel, nickel alloy, (Ni—Mo₂, Ni—Co, Ni—Fe, Ni—Mo—Cd,Ni—S_(x), Raney nickel, etc.), titanium alloy may be used as the cathode71 b. Natural rubber, synthetic rubber, and plastic may be utilized asmaterials for the insulation frame 70. A distance is set between theanode 71 a and cathode 71 b by the thickness of the insulation frame 70.The thickness of insulation frame 70 is within a range of 1 to 20millimeters, and preferably is 1 to 20 millimeters, and more preferablyis 1 to 5 millimeters.

[0082] Since the electrode is shaped as a plate as shown in FIG. 1, whenthe electrode is installed at nearly a right angle to the direction thevibrating blades 16 f are facing to cut off the flow of electrolyticfluid 14 generated by the vibration (or agitation) of the vibratingblade 16 f of the vibration-stirring means; then multiple small holes 74must be formed in the electrodes (anode 71 a and cathode 71 b) as shownin FIG. 5B and FIG. 6B. The electrolytic fluid 14 passing through thesmall holes 74 can in this way flow smoothly. The holes can be acircular shape or a polygonal shape and there are no particularrestrictions on the shape. The size and number of small holes 74 arepreferably set to achieve a balance between both the basic purpose ofthe electrode and the purpose of the porosity. The small holes 74 on theelectrode preferably have a surface area of 50 percent or more of theelectrode surface in terms of effective surface area (in other words,surface area contacting the electrolytic fluid 14). The porous(multi-hole) electrode may have a net shape.

[0083] If the electrode is installed nearly parallel to the direction ofcurrent flow of the electrolytic fluid 14, then there is no need to makethe electrode porous. However in that case, rather than a ring shape,the insulation frame 70 may be installed at several separate points onthe electrode periphery or installed at separate points along the topand bottom edges.

[0084] The anode 71 a and cathode 71 b are respectively connected to ananode main bus-bar 71 a′ and cathode main bus bar 71 b′ as shown in FIG.2. This anode main bus-bar 71 a′ and cathode main bus bar 71 b′ areconnected to the power supply 34 as shown in FIG. 1.

[0085] The power supply 34 may supply direct current and preferablysupplies normal low-ripple direct current. However, other power supplieswith different waveforms may also be utilized. These types ofelectrolysis current waveforms are described for example, in the“Electrochemistry” (Society of Japan) Vol. 24, P. 398-403, and pages449-456 of same volume, the “Electroplating Guide” by the Federation ofElectro Plating Industry Association, Japan” Apr. 15, 1996, P. 378-385,the “Surface Technology Compilation” issued by Koshinsha (Corp.) Jun.15, 1983, P. 301-302, same volume P. 517-527, same volume P. 1050-1053,the Nikkan Kogyo Shinbun “Electroplating Technology Compilation” P365-369 Jul. 25, 1971, same volume P. 618-622, etc.

[0086] In the present invention, among the various pulse waveforms, arectangular waveform pulse is preferable, particularly in view of theimproved energy efficiency. This type of power supply (power supplyapparatus) can create voltages with rectangular waveforms from an AC(alternating current) voltage. This type of power supply further has arectifier circuit utilizing for example transistors and is known as apulse power supply. The rectifier for these type of power supplies maybe a transistor regulated power supply, a dropper type power supply, aswitching power supply, a silicon rectifier, an SCR type rectifier, ahigh-frequency rectifier, an inverter digital-controller rectifier, (forexample, the Power Master made by Chuo Seisakusho (Corp.)), the KTSSeries made by Sansha Denki (Corp.), the RCV power supply made byShikoku Denki Co., a means for supplying rectangular pulses by switchingtransistors on and off and comprised of a switching regulator powersupply and transistor switch, a high frequency switching power supply(for using diodes to change the alternating current into direct current,add a 20 to 30 KHz high frequency waveform, and with power transistorsapply transforming, once again rectify the voltage, and extract a smooth(low-ripple) output), a PR type rectifier, a high-frequency control typehigh-speed pulse PR power supply (for example, a HiPR Series (ChiyodaCorp.), etc.

[0087] The voltage supplied to each electrode is preferably as uniformas possible. Condensers should preferably be installed at each electrodeto ensure this uniform voltage. The voltage applied between the anode 71a and the cathode 71 b should be the same as during normal electrolysisof the water.

[0088] The electrolytic fluid 14 is water containing electrolyticmaterial. Here, a soluble alkali metal hydroxide (KOH, NaOH, etc.) or analkali rare-earth metal hydroxide (for example, Ba (OH)₂, Mg(OH)₂,Ca(OH)₂, etc.) or a ammonium alkyl 4 (tetra-alkylammonium), andmaterials of the known related art may be used as the electrolyticmaterial. Among these KOH is preferable. The content of electrolyticmaterial in the electrolytic fluid is preferably 5 to 10 percent. The pHof the electrolytic fluid is preferably 7 to 10 percent.

[0089] The lid member 10 b is installed on the upper section of theelectrolytic cell 10A as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. A hydrogen-oxygengas extraction outlet 10B′ is formed for collecting the hydrogen-oxygengas generated by that lid member. A hydrogen-oxygen gas extraction tube10B″ is connected to that extraction outlet 10B′. The hydrogen-oxygengas trapping means is comprised of this lid member 10B andhydrogen-oxygen gas extraction tube 10B″.

[0090] The material for the electrolytic cell 10A and lid member 10B mayfor example be stainless steel, copper, another metal, or plastic(synthetic resin) such as polycarbonate.

[0091] The vibrating rod 16 e of the vibration-stirring means 16 extendsupwards and downwards through the lid member 10B. As shown in FIG. 4,the opening formed in the lid member 10B section for the vibrating rod16 e can be an airtight seal. This airtight seal comprises a flexiblemember 10C made for example of rubber plate and installed between theclamp member attached to the inner edge of the opening formed in the lidmember 10B, and the clamp member attached to the outer surface of thevibrating rod 16 e. The means for forming an airtight seal may also bean inner ring of a support bearing attached to vibrating rod 16 e, anouter ring of said support bearing attached to the inner edge of theopening in lid member 10B, and the inner ring is movable up and downalong the (rod) stroke versus the outer ring. A stroke unit of this typemay for example be the NS-A model (product name) and NS model (productname) made by THK (Corp.). The airtight sealing means may be a rubberplate installed only in the opening in the lid member 10B that thevibrating rod 16 e passes through, or may be a laminated piece, etc.Rubber, and in particular soft rubber with good shape forming capabilitymay for example be utilized as this sealing means. The vibration widthof the vertically oscillating vibrating rod is usually 20 millimeters orless, preferably is 10 millimeters or less, and a width of 5 millimetersis particularly preferable. That (vibration width) lower limit is 0.1millimeter or more and preferably is about 0.5 millimeters or more. Byusing a suitable material such as rubber as the sealing member,follow-up motion can be achieved, a satisfactory airtight state obtainedwith little friction heat.

[0092] The electrolysis is preferably performed at a fluid temperatureof 20 to 70° C. and an electrical current density of 5 to 20 A/dm2. Asshown by FIG. 26, the hydrogen-oxygen gas generated by electrolysis isextracted by way of a seal port 10B′″ connected to the gas extractiontube 10B″. The seal port 10B′″ also comprises the gas trapping means.FIG. 27 shows a typical gas combustion device utilizing thehydrogen-oxygen gas recovered from this gas generator. Thehydrogen-oxygen gas is collected in the required quantity in theaccumulator and passed through a moisture remover and fire preventerbefore being supplied to the combustion nozzle. This combustion devicecan be utilized in boilers, gas cutoff equipment, generators, and powersources for aircraft, automobiles, and ships, etc.

[0093] The hydrogen-oxygen gas generated by this invention is also knownas the so-called brown gas. This gas does not require air for combustionand therefore does not generate environmental pollutants such as nitrousoxides during combustion.

[0094]FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of thevibrating-stirring means. In this example, the base 16 a is clamped tothe installation bed 40 on the upper part of the electrolytic cell 10Aby way of the vibration absorbing member 41. A rod-shaped guide member43 is clamped to the installation bed 40 to extend perpendicularlyupwards. This guide member 43 is installed (positioned) within the coilspring 16 b. A transistor inverter 35 for controlling the frequency ofthe vibration motor 16 d is installed between the vibration motor 16 dand the power supply 136 for driving that motor 16 d. The power supply136 is for example 200 volts. The drive means for this vibration motor16 d can also be used in the other embodiments of the present invention.

[0095]FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of thevibrating-stirring means. In this example, a rod-shaped upper guidemember 144 clamped to a vibrating member 16 c, extends downwards in adirection perpendicular to the vibrating member 16 c. A rod-shaped lowerguide member 145 clamped to the installation bed 40 extends upwards in adirection perpendicular to the installation bed 40. These guide members144, 145 are installed (positioned) within the coil spring 16 b. Asuitable space is formed between the bottom edge of the upper side guidemember 144, and the upper edge of the lower side guide member 145 toallow vibration of the vibrating member 16 c.

[0096]FIG. 17 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of thevibrating-stirring means. In this example, the vibration motor 16 d isinstalled on the lower side of a vibration member 16 c′ attached to theupper side of the vibration member 16. The vibration rod 16 e branchesinto two sections 134 inside the electrolytic cell 10A. The vibratingblades 16 f are installed across these two rod sections 134.

[0097]FIG. 18 and FIG. 19 are cross sectional views showing a variationof the vibrating-stirring means. In this example (FIG. 18), the lowestvibrating blade 16 f is facing obliquely downwards. The other vibratingblades 16 f are facing obliquely upwards. The electrolytic fluid 14nearest the bottom of the electrolytic cell 10A can in this way beadequately vibrated and stirred and accumulation of fluid in the bottomof the electrolytic cell can be prevented. The vibrating blades 16 f mayalso all be set facing obliquely downwards.

[0098]FIG. 20 and FIG. 21 are cross sectional views showing anotherinstallation state of the vibration-stirring means onto the electrolyticcell of the present invention. FIG. 22 is a flat view of thatinstallation state. FIG. 20 and FIG. 21 are views taken respectivelyalong lines X-X′ and lines Y-Y′ of a cross section of FIG. 22.

[0099] In this state, a laminated piece 3 comprised of a rubber plate 2and the metal plates 1, 1′ is utilized as the vibration absorbing memberinstead of the coil spring 16 b. In other words, the laminated piece 3is clamped by way of an anti-vibration rubber 112 to a bracket members118 affixed to an upper edge of electrolytic cell 10A by using the metalplate 1′ and bolt 131. The rubber plate 2 is installed on the that metalplate 1′, the metal plate 1 installed on top of that rubber plate 2.This assembly is then integrated into one piece by the bolts 116 and117.

[0100] The vibration motor 16 d is clamped by a bolt 132 and a vibrationsupport member 115 to a metal plate 1. The upper edge of the vibratingrod 16 e is installed by way of a rubber ring 119 to the laminated piece3 with the metal plate 1 and rubber plate 2. In other words, the uppermetal plate 1 renders the functions of the vibration member 16 cdescribed in FIG. 1 and other embodiments. The lower metal plate 1′renders the functions of the base 16 a described in FIG. 1 and otherembodiments. The laminated piece 3 (mainly the rubber plate 2)containing the metal plates 1, 1′ renders the vibration absorbingfunctions identical to the coil spring 16 b described in FIG. 1 andother embodiments.

[0101]FIG. 23A through 23C are flat views of the laminated piece 3. Inthe example in FIG. 23A corresponding to the states in FIG. 20 throughFIG. 22, a (through) hole 5 is formed in the laminated piece 3 to allowpassage of the vibrating rod 16 e. In the example in FIG. 23B, the holes5 on the laminated piece 3 are separated by a dividing line into twosections 3 a and 3 b to allow easy passage of the vibrating rod 16 ewhen assembling the device. In the example in FIG. 23C, the laminatedpiece 3 forms a ring-shape corresponding to the upper edge of theelectrolytic cell 10A and an opening 6 is formed in the center section.

[0102] In the examples in FIG. 23A and FIG. 23B, the upper edge of theelectrolytic cell 10A is sealed by the laminated piece 3. The laminatedpiece 3 in this way functions the same as the lid member 10B.

[0103]FIG. 24A and FIG. 24B are cross sectional views showing the stateof the electrolytic cell sealed by the laminated piece 3. In FIG. 24A,the rubber plate 2 makes direct contact with the vibrating rod 16 e in(through) holes 5 forming a seal. In FIG. 24B, a flexible seal member136 is installed between the vibrating rod 16 e and laminated piece 3 toseal the opening 6.

[0104] In FIG. 25A through FIG. 25E, a laminated piece 3 serves as thevibration absorbing material. In the example in FIG. 25A, the laminatedpiece is made up of the metal plate 1 and the rubber plate 2. In theexample in FIG. 25A, the laminated piece 3 is made up of an upper metalplate 1 and upper rubber plate 2 and lower metal plate 1′ and lowerrubber plate 2′. In the example in FIG. 25D, the laminated piece 3 ismade up of an upper metal plate 1, an upper rubber plate 2, anintermediate metal plate 1″, a lower rubber plate 2′ and a lower metalplate 1′. The number of metal plates and rubber plates in the laminatedpiece 3 can for example be from 1 to 5 pieces. In the present invention,the vibration absorbing member can also be comprised of only the rubberplate.

[0105] Stainless steel, steel, copper, aluminum and other suitablealloys may be used as the metal plates 1, 1′ and 1″. The thickness ofthe metal plate may for example be from 10 to 40 millimeters. However,metal plate (for example, the intermediate metal plate 1′) not directlyclamped to members other than the laminated piece can be thin with adimension from 0.3 to 10 millimeters.

[0106] Synthetic rubber or vulcanized natural rubber may be used as thematerial for the rubber plates 2 and 2′. The rubber plate 2 and 2′ arepreferably anti-vibration rubber as specified in JISK6386. The rubberplate in particular has a static shearing resilience of 4 to 22 kgf/cm²and preferably of 5 to 10 kgf/cm² and preferably has an elongation of250 percent or more. Rubber specified for use as synthetic rubberincludes: chlorophene rubber, nitrile rubber, nitrile-chlorophenerubber, styrene-chlorophene rubber, acrylonitrile butadiene rubber,isophrene rubber, ethylene propylene diene copolymer rubber,epichlorylhydrine rubber, alkylene oxide rubber, fluorine rubber,silicon rubber, urethane rubber, polysulfide rubber, phosphorbinerubber. The rubber thickness is for example 5 to 60 millimeters.

[0107] In the example in FIG. 25E, the laminated piece 3 is made up anupper metal plate 1, a rubber plate 2 and a lower metal plate 1′ Therubber plate 2 is made up of an upper solid rubber layer 2 a and spongerubber layer 2 b and lower solid rubber layer 2 c. One of either thelower solid rubber layer 2 a and 2 c may be eliminated. A stack orlamination comprised of multiple solid rubber layer and multiple spongerubber layers may also be used.

[0108]FIG. 28 is a cross sectional view showing a variation of thevibration stirring means. In this example, the vibration motor 16 d isinstalled on the side of the electrolytic cell 10A. The vibration member16 c extends horizontally above the electrolytic cell 10A, The vibrationmember 16 c is installed onto the vibrating rod 16 e. A structure ofthis type allows the lid member 10B to be easily attached or detachedfrom the electrolytic cell 10A.

[0109]FIG. 29 shows a variation of the lid member 10B. In this example,the lid member 10B is attached to the electrolytic cell 10A only at theupper section of the electrode groups 2 x, 2 y shown in FIG. 1. Anenclosure member 63 is attached extending downwards on both ends of thelid member 10B. An opening 65 is formed in this enclosure member 63 toallow electrolytic fluid to flow into the lower section immersed inelectrolytic fluid. A cover plate 64 can be installed to be upward ordownward adjustable to cover a section of the upper area of that opening65. To make the cover plate 64 adjustable, slots 66 oriented upwards anddownwards can be formed on the cover plate 64, and bolts 67 fit into thescrew holes 68 formed in the enclosure member 63 for adjustment by meansof the slots 66. Adjusting the vertical position of the cover plates 64allows adjusting the fluid level above the electrode groups 2 x, 2 y andtherefore adjusting the gas pressure.

[0110] The vibrating rod 16 e does not pass through the lid member ofthe vibration-stirring means when using this type of lid member. Asealed structure is preferable in this case, in order to improvehydrogen-oxygen gas recovery efficiency and prevent the electrolyticfluid from scattering (into the air).

[0111] The present invention can also be applied to gas generator deviceto separate and recover the hydrogen and oxygen by electrolysis byinstalling a film between the anode and cathode at intervals to separatethe hydrogen and oxygen. This type of separation and recovery gasgenerator is described for example, in a report entitled, “Developmentof 2500 cm² Solid Polymer Electrolyte Water Electrolyzer in WE-NET” byM. Yamaguchi, et al.

[0112] The embodiment of the present invention is described next. Thepresent invention however is not limited to these embodiments.

First Embodiment

[0113] Utilizing the device as described in FIG. 1 through FIG. 3, butwith the lid member 10B described in FIG. 29, hydrogen-oxygen gas wasgenerated and collected under the following conditions.

[0114] Electrolytic cell and lid member:

[0115] Manufactured from stainless steel

[0116] 270 mm×1660 mm×390 mm (H)

[0117] Vibration generating means:

[0118] Vibration motor; Uras Vibrator manufactured by Murakami SeikiSeisakusho (Corp.) (product name), 250W×3-phase×200 V, 2-axis type,

[0119] Vibrating blades: Manufactured from stainless steel (SUS304), 6blades

[0120] Vibrating rod: Manufactured from titanium, 12 mm diameter

[0121] Spacers: 12 pieces, manufactured from titanium

[0122] Clamp members for vibrating blades; 12 pieces

[0123] Packing for vibrating blades: 12 sheets, manufactured by Teflon(registered trademark)

[0124] Electrode group:

[0125] Anodes: 50 sheets, made from platinum plated titanium alloycapable of long-term use without film oxidation

[0126] Cathodes: 50 sheets, made from titanium alloy

[0127] Insulation frame: Synthetic rubber, thickness 5 mm

[0128] Electrolytic fluid: KOH added as electrolytic material at 8percent by weight to distilled water, temperature 55° C., pH10

[0129] Voltage applied across cathode and anode: 2.0 volts (directcurrent)

[0130] Electrical current density: 5A/dm²

[0131] Hydrogen-oxygen gas collection rate was 1,000 liters per hour.

Second Embodiment

[0132] Other than utilizing an AC multiplex current as described in“Electrochemistry” (Society of Japan) Vol. 24, P. 398-403, and pages449-456 of same volume, the same structure as in the first embodimentwas utilized.

[0133] Hydrogen-oxygen gas collection rate was 1,200 liters per hour.

[0134] After continuous operation over a period of one month, stablecollection of hydrogen-oxygen gas was achieved at a power consumptionlower than the first embodiment.

Third Embodiment

[0135] Other than using a 270 mm×850 mm×340 mm (H) structure as theelectrolytic cell, and using one Hifrerrous KHE-2-2T [100 to 120 Hz]unit manufactured by Murakami Seiki Seisakusho (Corp.) (product name) asthe vibration motor, the same structure as in the first embodiment wasutilized.

[0136] Hydrogen-oxygen gas collection rate was 800 liters per hour.

Fourth and Fifth Embodiments

[0137] Other than using the seal described in FIG. 20 through FIG. 24Bat the position for the vibration-stirring means not attached to the lidmember 10B, the same structures as in the first and second embodimentswere utilized.

[0138] The fourth embodiment implemented the same as the firstembodiment, has a hydrogen-oxygen gas collection rate of 2,000 litersper hour. The fifth embodiment implemented the same as the secondembodiment, has a hydrogen-oxygen gas collection rate of 2,500 litersper hour. Both of these embodiments represent a large improvement.

Sixth Embodiment

[0139] Other than using a power supply such as the SCR type 6-phasehalf-wave rectifier pulse power supply as described in P.367-368 of“Electroplating Technology Compilation” issued by the Nikkan KogyoShinbun in Jul. 25, 1971, the same structure as in the first embodimentwas utilized.

[0140] The hydrogen-oxygen gas collection rate of 2,200 liters per hourin spite of the fact that energy consumption was less than in the firstembodiment.

Seventh Embodiment

[0141] Other than using the components described in FIG. 1 through FIG.3 as the lid member 10B, the same structure as in the first embodimentwas utilized.

[0142] The hydrogen-oxygen gas collection rate of 3,000 liters per hour.This rate is a large improvement compared to the first embodiment.

Eighth Embodiment

[0143] Other than using the Power Master PND-1 model multi-functionrectifier using the inverter digital control method and made by ChuoSeisakusho (Corp.) as the power supply 34, and using a rectangularwaveform pulse power supply (power-on 0.08 seconds, power-off 0.02seconds), the structure is identical to the seventh embodiment. Thehydrogen-oxygen gas collection rate of 3,500 liters per hour in spite ofthe fact that energy consumption was less than in the first embodiment.

[0144] The present invention configured as described above rendered thefollowing effects.

[0145] (1) Using with the vibration-stirring means revealed thestartling fact that electrolysis was satisfactory even with a gapbetween electrodes of 20 millimeters or less. Consequently, thegeneration of hydrogen-oxygen gas was tremendously improved.

[0146] (2) Along with reducing the gap between electrodes, the amount ofhydrogen-oxygen gas generated by one gas generator was enormouslyimproved.

[0147] (3) Using the vibration-stirring means ensures that large bubblesdo not occur in the oxygen-hydrogen gas generated in the electrolyticfluid, and that electrical resistance remains small.

[0148] (4) The present invention allows a flexible response to largepower demands by utilizing inexpensive electrical power at night, andgenerating and storing oxygen-hydrogen gas for use when needed.Utilizing a direct current pulse waveform power supply for electrolysisallows even further savings in electrical power.

[0149] (5) The apparatus of the present invention allows utilizingcassette fuel tanks as a safe, non-hazardous fuel supply source forcooking stoves.

[0150] (6) Using the gas obtained from the present invention provides anair conditioning apparatus superior to conventional accumulator (heatstorage) air conditioning.

[0151] (7) Using the gas generated by the present invention allowscombusting small, intermediate and large municipal trash and industrialwastes in an incinerator. Trash can in this way be incinerated withoutpollution in a highly economical method.

[0152] (8) The apparatus of the present invention can be utilized tosupply fuel to boilers and gas turbines, etc.

[0153] (9) The present invention can serve effectively as a clean,non-polluting gas generator device for cities.

[0154] (10) The present invention can serve effectively as a fuelproduction apparatus for ships.

[0155] (11) The present invention provides satisfactory, uniform gasgeneration even without implementing a special means such as gaspropeller agitation.

1. A hydrogen-oxygen gas generator comprising an electrolytic cell, anelectrode group formed from a first electrode and a second electrodemutually installed in said electrolytic cell, a power supply forapplying a voltage across said first electrode and said secondelectrode, and a gas trapping means for collecting the hydrogen-oxygengas generated by electrolyzing the electrolyte fluid stored within saidelectrolytic cell, wherein said generator further contains avibration-stirring means for stirring and agitating said electrolyticfluid stored within aid electrolytic cell, and the distance betweenadjacent said first electrode and said second electrode adjacentlyinstalled within said electrode group is set within a range of 1 to 20millimeters.
 2. A hydrogen-oxygen gas generator according to claim 1,wherein said gas trapping means is comprised of a lid member installedon said electrolytic cell, and a hydrogen-gas extraction tube connectingto the hydrogen-oxygen gas extraction outlet formed on said lid member.3. A hydrogen-oxygen gas generator according to claim 1, wherein saidvibration-stirring means is comprised of a vibration generating meanscontaining vibrating motors, and a vibrating rod is linked to thevibration generating means for vibrating within the electrolytic celland blades unable to rotate are installed on at least one level of saidvibrating rod, and the vibrating motors vibrate at 10 to 200 Hertz.
 4. Ahydrogen-oxygen gas generator according to claim 3, wherein saidvibration generating means is installed with a vibration absorbingmaterial on the upper side of said electrolytic cell.
 5. Ahydrogen-oxygen gas generator according to claim 3, wherein saidvibration generating means is supported by support tables separate fromsaid electrolytic cell.
 6. A hydrogen-oxygen gas generator according toclaim 3, wherein said gas trapping means is comprised of a lid memberinstalled on said electrolytic cell, and a hydrogen-gas extraction tubeconnecting to a hydrogen-oxygen gas extraction outlet formed on said lidmember, and said vibrating rod extends through said lid member, and asealing means between said lid member and said vibrating rod allowsvibration of the vibrating rod and also prevents the passage ofhydrogen-oxygen gas.
 7. A hydrogen-oxygen gas generator according toclaim 1, wherein at least one of either said first electrode or saidsecond electrode contain multiple holes. In the first aspect of theinvention, the power source is a direct current pulse power source
 8. Ahydrogen-oxygen gas generator according to claim 1, wherein said powersupply is a direct current pulse power supply.
 9. A hydrogen-oxygen gasgenerating method utilizing a hydrogen-oxygen gas generator as describedin claim 1, and utilizes electrolyte fluid consisting of 5 to 10 percentweight by volume of electrolytic material at pH7 up to 10, at 20 to 70degrees centigrade, to perform electrolysis of the electrolyte fluid toreach an electrical current density of 5A/dm² to 20A/dm².
 10. Ahydrogen-oxygen gas generating method according to claim 9, wherein saidelectrolysis is performed in said electrolytic cell sealed by said lidmember.
 11. A hydrogen-oxygen gas generating method according to claim9, wherein said electrolytic material is a water-soluble alkali metalhydroxide or an alkali rare-earth metal hydroxide.
 12. A hydrogen-oxygengas generating method according to claim 9, wherein said power supply isa direct current pulse power supply.